psychoanalyst

American  

[sahy-koh-an-l-ist] / ˌsaɪ koʊˈæn l ɪst /

noun

1. a person trained to practice psychoanalysis.

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Etymology

Origin of psychoanalyst

First recorded in 1910–15; psycho- + analyst

Explanation

A psychoanalyst is a mental health professional who works with clients over a long period of time to get at the root causes of their emotional and mental problems. Ever since Sigmund Freud first developed his theories of psychoanalysis in the 1890s, its practitioners, known as psychoanalysts, have helped people explore the origins of their mental states. Unlike other kinds of therapists, psychoanalysts tend to focus on dreams and childhood memories and traumas, and they use techniques meant to tap into a client's subconscious. A psychoanalyst is often called an analyst for short.

Example Sentences

I keep coming back to psychoanalyst Karen Horney’s 1950 discussion of neurosis and the professions—how they can attract exactly the wrong people, masquerading ideals they don’t possess.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

“As a psychoanalyst or psychiatrist ages, we have the ability, through our own life experiences, to be more understanding and more aware,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 13, 2026

"These groups are the equivalent of the bistro counter – but with more people," said psychoanalyst Patrick Avrane, author of a book on attitudes to crime.

From BBC • Sep. 22, 2025

We don’t know whether Alanis read or cared about the Greeks, but she’s made hundreds of mentions of Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung and how his pioneering theories of analytical psychology deeply influence her songwriting.

From Salon • Nov. 29, 2024

The psychoanalyst was then one of the fastest players in the country, perhaps even stronger than Bobby had anticipated.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady

Related Words

• psychotherapist
• therapist